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In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we share a highlight reel of all eight episodes from this season. explore the importance of human connection in a post-pandemic world, the unique perspective of younger generations, and the role technology is playing in shaping the workplace. Discover why understanding Gen Z is crucial for the future of the design industry and how their perspectives can reshape your approach to design, work, and mentorship.     Whether you are an avid fan or want a concise way to share insights with a colleagues, this episode has many profound insights you won’t want to miss.     Uncover the secrets to building trust and connection, especially in a digitally native era.  Learn strategies for fostering a sense of purpose and passion in the workplace to engage and motivate employees.  Explore how Gen Z's unique perspective, shaped by a digital-native upbringing, is challenging traditional career paths and redefining the corporate ladder.    Connect with our co-hosts from this episode on LinkedIn:  Cindy Kaufman  Byron Morton    Tune in to our episodes for more, and subscribe you never miss an episode.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon.

In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we explore how Gen Z's unique approach to building relationships, trust, and connection in the digital age can transform the workplace. Our guests shed light on the dynamics of face-to-face interactions in a digitally native generation.   Explore how to adapt your management styles to meet Gen Z employees where they are in terms of digital-native expectations.  Learn why Gen Z's unique upbringing in the digital age positions them as mentors for leaders of older generations, offering solutions that can drive business success.  Discover how emerging technologies like Chat GPT and AI are poised to unlock untapped potential when paired with the next generation of talent.    Guests:   Hannah Grady Williams  Gabriela Silverman  Jeff Kabat 

In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we explore the dynamic interplay of purpose and passion in the workplace. Delve into the power of understanding the "why" behind our actions and its potential to transform our choices. Learn how a sense of purpose can forge connections, nurture communities, and foster compassion within organizations. We emphasize the crucial balance between profit and social responsibility and invite you to join us on a journey of self-discovery, unlocking the secrets of a purpose-driven life with profound impacts on your career and beyond.  Learn why delving into the profound relationship between purpose and passion at work can be transformational for individuals and organizations alike.  Learn how embracing a sense of purpose can create connections, build communities, and foster compassion circles within organizations.  Uncover how finding the right balance between profit and social responsibility is key to living a purposeful life and making a positive impact on your career and beyond.  Connect with our guests:  Akhtar Badshah  Audrey Koehn  Lennis Serrano  Tune in to our episodes for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

In this episode we explore the evolving landscape of career paths, focusing on how Generation Z approaches and reshapes traditional concepts of career progression. Our guests share invaluable insights into the mindset of Gen Z employees and discusses the challenges and opportunities that arise when integrating their preferences into the workplace.  Discover why Gen Z's approach to career paths challenges traditional models and how it can benefit your organization.  Explore the concept of the "Jungle Gym" model for career progression and learn how it empowers employees to grow.  Learn how fostering authenticity, transparency, and psychological safety can attract and retain Gen Z talent in your workplace.  Connect with our guests:  Rohin Shahi  Corianne Burrell  Shannon White  Tune in to our episodes for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon.   

In this episode we dive into the dynamic world of learning in the digital era, with a specific focus on how to engage and empower Generation Z. Join us as we uncover effective strategies for adapting to Gen Z's unique learning preferences.   Learn why the buddy system works by exploring the shift from traditional face-to-face mentorship to a dynamic peer-based approach, aligning with Gen Z's preference for accessibility.   Uncover why Gen Z highly values immediate, constructive feedback, recognizing how it catalyzes their growth, while also delving into the dynamics of intergenerational digital communication.  Discover how organizations can successfully accommodate Gen Z's self-reliant and self-advocating learning style, fostering a culture of ongoing learning through skill development opportunities.  Guests:   Meghan Grace  Diana Pisone  Julia Carnaghi   Tune in to our episodes for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

In this episode, we explore the concept of belonging within the architecture and design industry. Megan Henshall (Global Events Stategist from Google), shares three crucial dimensions of belonging: being part of a group, sharing common ideas, and connecting with various related groups.   In the second part of the episode, we chat with Kristin Cerutti (Regional Design Director at Nelson Worldwide) and Lilley Thomas (Interior Designer at Nelson Worldwide), to discuss the challenges posed by the return to office work and the potential of technology to enhance, rather than replace, physical interactions.   If you want to emphasize the value of empathy, choice, and adaptability, this episode is a must-listen.  Uncover the secrets to creating inclusive and belonging-focused event experiences for anyone interested in fostering human connection.  Learn why belonging matters more than ever in today's dynamic workplace and event landscape, with practical insights on creating immersive and inclusive environments.  Discover how establishing personal connections beyond job titles in the workplace can make employees feel like they belong and are part of a larger community.  Guests:  Megan Henshall  Kristin Cerutti Lilley Thomas    Tune in to our episodes for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon.  Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com. This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW Design Group, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Wize Grazette, and Samantha Sager.   

In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Dost Bardouille, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility of Swinerton; and Nina Johnson, Senior Commercial Insights Manager at Armstrong Craven. They discuss the pitfalls of traditional mentorship and explore three additional solutions for career development and upskilling your talent in a modern era.     After listening, you will be able to:  Identify a key shift impacting career development today  Compare three new methods used for engagement  Assess the D.E.I. benefits of champions  Summarize the 7 considerations needed in designing a shadow board.  In part one, we sit down with Dost Bardouille of Swinerton to evaluate the pitfalls of traditional career development and compare two new methods of connection: sponsorship and champions. And in part two, we sit down with Nina Johnson of Armstrong Craven to identify how implementing a shadow board, a tactic that major fashion house Gucci used, can provide employees with high level engagement and in turn prove long-term success for a company's growth.  EPISODE EXTRA: Want CEU credit for listening? Take the quiz and earn your certificate of completion.  How it works:   Step 1: Listen to the episode.  Step 2: Visit this link to take a short, 5-question quiz.  *Scoring an 80% or above on the quiz will earn you 0.5 CEU  Step 3: Upon passing the quiz, receive your certificate of completion from CEU provider Teknion.  Accredited for: IDCEC| 0.5 CEU    Connect with our expert guests on LinkedIn:  Nina Johnson  Dost Bardouille  Tune in to our trailer for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon.     

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of creativity in the workplace and explore the exciting possibilities of the digital age?   In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of design, technology, and innovation with Creativity Strategist, CEO Advisor and Author Natalie Nixon.   Also in this episode, join our special guests Carmen Cruz and Michelle Rotherham from CannonDesign as we discuss the importance of defining creative time, embracing new digital tools like the Metaverse and AI, and fostering collaboration in the design industry.   Discover how to combat the challenges of creativity in a time-starved world and find inspiration to design the future you envision. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about the creative process, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in and get ready to supercharge your creativity!  Learn why implementing creative thinking in your team is crucial and discover the immense value of fostering workplace creativity.  Learn how to "define creative time" and understand its role in managing creative tasks effectively.  Discover how cutting-edge digital tools are shaping the future of the design industry in a deep conversation about their potential.   Tune in to our trailer for more, and subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

Prepare to be captivated by a paradigm-shifting discussion that explores the fusion of innovation and change surrounding office culture and collaboration. In this episode our guests Brian Elliott and Sheela Subramanian, co-authors of the groundbreaking book How the Future Works, offer their unique perspectives on reshaping the workplace narrative.  Also, learn what our friends Bill Bouchey and Isabel Das from Gensler have to share about ways to bridge the gap between the physical and virtual cultures in your workplace. Key Takeaways: Shift from Place to Purpose: Shift your focus from the confines of the workplace's physicality towards valuing the excellence of work and its execution. This shift emphasizes the importance of work itself over the location.  Generational Differences and Learning: Explore the varied work methodologies shaped by different life experiences of different generations. Delve into how younger generations, raised in the digital age, adeptly leverage digital tools to enhance collaboration and foster connections.  Culture and Connection: Discover how to bridge the divide between in-person and digital interactions by prioritizing the development and sustenance of a robust company culture.  Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes! Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

Tune in as we bring you firsthand accounts from individuals entrenched in the industry's dynamic landscape, as well as those revolutionizing the field. Our conversations traverse a multitude of topics. From strategies to attract and retain emerging talents, to the art of harnessing personas within the realm of business-to-business, and even the mastery of leveraging data to propel your business forward.  Each season tackles significant challenges in the interior design industry.  ThinkLab team dedicates 6 months to in-depth research for fresh insights.  Features insights from industry experts, offering diverse perspectives.  Relevant for designers, marketers, sellers, and professionals across the spectrum.    Subscribe so you never miss an episode. Stay ahead of the curve with "Design Nerds Anonymous." Your journey to mastering the fusion of design and business starts here.  Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

In this enlightening episode, Amanda Schneider, Founder and President of ThinkLab, and Cindy Kaufman, VP of Marketing at Mannington Commercial, delve into the profound influence that designers hold in shaping our future. Through engaging conversations and insightful data, they uncover the unique perspective of Gen Z. Underscoring the pivotal role of their decisions in shaping industries and experiences.  Key Takeaways:  Explore Gen Z's distinctive outlook on the world and their concerns about the future.  Recognize the supportive role of technology in enhancing interactions while valuing tactile experiences.  Uncover Gen Z's demand for meaningful returns on their efforts and its alignment with evolving work trends.  Throughout this engaging conversation, Amanda and Cindy weave a narrative that intertwines purpose, relationships, and technology, illuminating how these elements collaboratively shape the trajectory of the design industry. Their dynamic dialogue underscores the symbiotic relationship between innovation and human connection, inviting listeners to join the evolving narrative of design's transformative impact on our world. Thank you to our sponsors Mannington Commercial, THEMART and NeoCon. 

In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we ask the question "How to Keep Gen Z from Leaving the Design Industry." In the past two years, the interior design industry has faced significant changes, with firms struggling to retain and attract talent. But what are the reasons behind this trend, and how can we address them? Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with two industry leaders, Cheryl Durst, CEO of IIDA, and Khoi Vo, CEO of ASID. Together, we'll explore the calls to action for the industry on not only attracting but retaining talent. These organizations have had a somewhat tumultuous history, but today they're coming together to explore the calls to action for the industry on not only attracting but retaining talent. Key Takeaways: ·      Discover why the interior design industry is struggling to retain and attract talent despite firms reporting record-breaking backlogs and new project workloads. ·      Learn how lack of work-life balance and communication challenges are the two main reasons that prompt young talent to leave the industry, and what firms can do to address these challenges. ·      Find out why today's students believe that three years or less is an appropriate amount of time to spend on their first job, and how this trend is impacting the industry. ·      Explore how firms can invest in their employees and prioritize their well-being by offering flexible working arrangements and clear communication channels. ·      Learn why promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion is crucial to retaining and attracting talent in the industry and providing opportunities for young talent to grow and develop their skills. ·      Discover how collaboration between industry organizations, educators, and practitioners is essential to address the talent challenge and ensure the industry's long-term success. Thank you for listening to our podcast episode on "How to Keep Gen Z from Leaving the Design Industry." We hope you found these insights engaging and helpful. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more industry updates and join us next time for another exciting topic.